President Bola Tinubu has staunchly defended his decision to appoint 47 ministers despite facing criticism amid economic challenges.
The President justified the large cabinet, asserting that the number reflects the diversity of roles required to run an efficient government.
In a meeting with a delegation from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), President Tinubu expressed doubt about reducing the size of his cabinet, stating that doing so may not guarantee improved performance.
He argued that combining too many ministries could lead to non-performance and hinder achieving results.
The President acknowledged the criticisms surrounding the heavily staffed cabinet and addressed concerns about the nation’s economic hardship.
Tinubu emphasized that efficiency, mobility, and resourcefulness are crucial in government personnel and that assigning manageable workloads are essential for effective governance.
While former Presidents Muhammadu Buhari, Goodluck Jonathan, Umaru Yar’Adua, and Olusegun Obasanjo maintained smaller cabinets during their tenures, President Tinubu named 48 ministers, the highest in Nigeria’s 24-year return to democracy.
He defended the move, stating, “Nigeria needs to turn the corner to grow, and we must give people challenges they can manage, and that is what we are doing.”
The President urged the Christian leadership to play a role in promoting tolerance and hope among Nigerians, emphasizing the importance of faith leaders in fostering unity and peace.
Despite economic challenges, Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to addressing corruption and other vices for the overall prosperity of the Nigerian populace.
